Indrahar Pass Trek, Mcleod Ganj - Timings, Accessibility, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 16 km from McLeod Ganj and 21 km from Dharamshala, Indrahar Pass is a mountain pass in the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas near the town of Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. Located at an altitude of 4,342 m above mean sea level, Indrahar pass forms the border between Kangra and Chamba districts.

The trekking trail to Indrahar pass is very popular and the trek starts from Galu Devi temple above Dharamkot village near Dharamsala, which is 2 km from McLeod Ganj Bus Stop. The Indrahara Pass trek is considered a moderate to difficult trek. The trek passes through the camping grounds of Triund, Illaqa, and Lahesh Caves. Guna Devi to Triund is a 6 km steep but marked trail. Triund is the base camp for the trekkers who continue the trek to Lahesh Cave, Indrahara Pass and Bharmour. Along the way there are many small Tea shops where one can refresh during the hike.

Trek up to Triund is very popular and busy with many local and foreign visitors. The trek gets slightly difficult from this point and it requires climbing boulders after passing Lahesh Cave. From Triund, the trail leads to Lahesh Cave (4 km from Triund) via Illaka passing through a meadow scattered with boulders. From Lahesh Cave, another 4 km steep climb over the rocks will take to Indrahar Pass. At the higher elevations there is a steep 300 - 400 m ascent towards the crest of the Dhauladhar. The trail continues over the crest and comes across several ascents. From the pass one can view Pir Panjal Range in the north and Mani Mahesh Kailash (5656 m) peak in the east. The total trek needs to 3-4 days and having a guide is recommended.

Best time to visit Indrahar Pass is from Mar to May and September to December.